APSEZ places India’s largest order for 8 tugs under the Make in India initiative with Cochin Shipyard
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), India’s largest integrated transport utility company, has announced an order for eight state-of-the-art 70-tonne bollard pull harbour tugs, all to be constructed by Cochin Shipyard Ltd. This aligns with the government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives by boosting local manufacturing and enhancing self-reliance in the maritime sector.
With a total contract value estimated at INR 450 crore, the tugs are expected to be delivered beginning December 2026 till May 2028, significantly improving the efficiency and safety of vessel operations in Indian ports.
The induction of the tugs will enhance Adani’s total fleet to 152.
Mr Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director & CEO of APSEZ, said: “This collaboration to procure from Cochin Shipyard Ltd signifies our commitment to enhancing maritime infrastructure in India and demonstrates our confidence in our nation’s PSUs. By leveraging local manufacturing capabilities, which are world class, we aim to contribute to the ‘Make in India’ initiative while ensuring that our operations meet international standards of safety and efficiency.”
Previously, APSEZ had contracted the construction of two 62-tonne bollard pull ASD (Azimuthing Stern Drive) tugs to Cochin Shipyard for Ocean Sparkle Ltd, both of which were delivered ahead of schedule and are deployed at Paradip Port and New Mangalore Port. The construction of three additional ASD tugs is currently underway, bringing the total order to 13 tugs, aimed at providing a younger fleet for efficient and reliable services in the port sector.
This initiative underscores the importance of sustainable practices in shipbuilding and reinforces the strategic significance of the maritime industry in India’s economic growth, said a release.
Source: Exim News Service: Ahmedabad, Dec. 29